SPRING HOPE – Stephen Wicker Roache was born July 2, 1942, in New Hanover County to the late Finley Ross and Elizabeth Wicker Roache. He was raised in Sanford where he met the love of his life, Joyce Ann West (Roache). The two lovebirds wed on December 17, 1960, and that was the start of nearly 61 years of love and companionship. Steve was a cowboy at heart, enjoying barrel racing in his younger days on his trusty steed Buck, and you never saw him without his signature white Stetson anywhere he went. He was a man’s man, a family man, and a man you would want to be right by your side no matter what situation you were in. Steve was a softy when it came to his wife, Joyce. They shared a life of ups, downs and most importantly, LOVE. In their time together they created a beautiful family that blossomed into two children, Misty Johnson (Thomas) and Stephen Roache II (Beth), Two grandchildren Miranda Boozell (Nathan) and Shannen Joyner (Storm), and two great- grandchildren Nixon Boozell and Sawyer Joyner. Many nieces and nephews.
Steve is survived by his sister Robin Sink (Robert) and brother Gary Roache (Wanda). He was preceded in death by his brothers Richard, David, Byron, and sister Sandy. Joyce preceded Steve in his journey to heaven in December 2021 and we all know that Steve couldn’t wait to dance with his Joyce as soon as they were reunited before God.
For now, like his favorite cowboys John Wayne and Clint Eastwood…. This ol’ cowboy has hung his Stetson for the last time and has gone to be with his girl.
A public visitation will be held from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM on Sunday, November 26, 2023 in the Parlor of Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
In loving memory. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
Misty, Buster, and all the family ,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your dad. I have many sweet memories of him at Christmas events at the grandparents The visits to his home and the fall hayrides . Uncle Steve and Aunt Joyce were always welcoming and kind . May God full your heart with sweet memories of them .May God surround you with his love, comfort and peace .
Helen Anne (West) Elrod and family